Saying thank you for freedom

Later on Monday we were invited to dinner by the 30th anniversary liberation committee where we met islanders and veterans. In the welcome speech the theme was that the islanders very much wanted to say thank you to those who gave them their freedom, to those who supported them afterwards, to all those who continue to support their right to choose their own future and to those who help them develop. They are also looking forward to those who work with them today on development - which is why the colleges were invited. Before 1982 few islanders stayed at school past 15 and levels of education were limited. After liberation education became a key focus and this investment in their young people is why so many come to study in the UK at 16.

When I first saw the guest list, I didn't understand the connection of all of the invitees. As people talk I begin to understand it more. Jersey and Guernsey have been invited because after the liberation in 1982 they gave the Falklands substantial financial gifts to help them rebuild. Jersey alone gave five million pounds. Both islands did this because of their experience of the trauma of occupation during the Second World War. Gibraltar share with the Falklands the fact that the population wish to remain British but another country wishes to claim them. The minister from Gibraltar replied to the opening speech at dinner and was passionate about freedom and democracy.

I think living in the UK, we take our freedom and our rights for granted. This week is making me think about it more and making me appreciate its value.